High Frequency Corona Discharge Ignition System Demonstration

Gas Technology Institute, Westport Fuel Systems, Inc., and BorgWarner Beru demonstrated the enhanced combustion performance that is possible with an advanced engine and ignition technology. The specially designed engine (Efficiency Spark Ignition) includes cylinder heads designed to deliver high turbulent kinetic energy by tumble flow motion. The engine advancements provided improvements in engine performance when using the baseline ignition system as well as the advanced ignition system. It is expected that both ignition systems would meet California Air Resources Board optional low oxides of nitrogen certification of 0.02 grams per brake horsepower-hour. The effect on carbon dioxide emissions is even more compelling, meeting all project targets. Testing results showed levels that would meet expected United States Environmental Protection Agency regulations through model year 2027.